At the Vatican on Monday, Pope Leo XIV received Sarah Mullally for her first official visit since taking office.
The meeting brought together leaders of the Catholic Church and the Church of England at a time of renewed dialogue between both traditions.
Mullally became Archbishop of Canterbury last month, making history as the first woman to lead the Church of England.
Her visit follows growing efforts to strengthen ties between the two churches, which split during the English Reformation in the 16th century.
That break, rooted in political and doctrinal disputes under King Henry VIII, created lasting divisions between Catholics and Anglicans.
However, recent decades have seen structured dialogue through ecumenical efforts aimed at rebuilding cooperation.
During their meeting, the pope pointed to the need for unity in a world facing conflict and uncertainty.
“While our suffering world greatly needs the peace of Christ, the divisions among Christians weaken our capacity to be effective bearers of that peace.”
Call For Unity In Global Evangelism Efforts
The pope said unity is essential for spreading Christian teachings effectively across nations.
“If the world is to take our preaching to heart, we must, therefore, be constant in our prayers and efforts to remove any stumbling blocks that hinder the proclamation of the Gospel.”
He explained that divisions between churches reduce their ability to deliver a clear and united message.
This message has remained central to his leadership, as he continues to push for cooperation among Christian groups.
Meanwhile, both churches have made progress on long-standing issues such as dialogue on doctrine and shared humanitarian efforts.
Yet differences remain, especially on leadership structures and social teachings in modern society.
“New problems have arisen in recent decades.”
Despite these challenges, the pope encouraged continued engagement and joint efforts in spreading the Christian message.
Historic Visit Builds On Growing Church Dialogue
Mullally welcomed the discussion and expressed openness to continued cooperation between both churches.
Her leadership marks a new chapter for the Church of England, given her background as a nurse and her experience in church administration.
Her appointment reflects wider changes within Anglican leadership, including increased representation of women in senior roles.
The visit also comes six months after King Charles III met the pope, a meeting seen as a sign of improving relations.
That earlier engagement signalled renewed diplomatic and spiritual ties between the British monarchy and the Vatican.
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